New Testament
Luke 20:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus refers to a scripture that speaks of a stone rejected by builders, which later becomes the cornerstone.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
But Jesus looked straight at them and said, "Then what does this Scripture mean: 'The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone'?
And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus refers to a scripture that speaks of a stone rejected by builders, which later becomes the cornerstone. This metaphor illustrates how Jesus, though initially rejected by many, is essential for the foundation of faith. The cornerstone is crucial in construction, symbolizing that Jesus is the key figure in God's plan for salvation. By asking about this scripture, Jesus challenges the religious leaders, prompting them to recognize their misunderstanding of His role. The verse emphasizes the irony of rejection leading to ultimate significance, highlighting how God's ways often defy human expectations. It serves as a reminder that what is overlooked or dismissed by society can hold great importance in God's kingdom.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 20:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the value of those who may be overlooked or rejected in our lives. It reminds us to seek God's perspective, understanding that true worth often lies beyond societal approval. Embracing the rejected can lead to profound blessings.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 20:17 mean?
In Luke 20:17, Jesus quotes a scripture about a stone rejected by builders that becomes the cornerstone. This illustrates how He, though initially rejected, is essential to God's plan for salvation.
What is the significance of the cornerstone in Luke 20:17?
The cornerstone is crucial in construction, symbolizing that Jesus is the key figure in faith and salvation. His rejection by some leads to His ultimate importance in God's kingdom.
What does the phrase 'the stone the builders rejected' refer to?
The phrase refers to Jesus, who was rejected by religious leaders and society but later recognized as essential for faith and salvation, highlighting the irony of His significance.
How does Luke 20:17 relate to rejection?
Luke 20:17 emphasizes that rejection can lead to greater significance, as seen in Jesus' role. It serves as a reminder that those overlooked by society can hold great value in God's eyes.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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